In an update published by Daily Post, the Nigerian Presidency has dismissed claims made by former Transportation Minister Rotimi Amaechi regarding a purported plan to implement a 25% tax increase following the next general election. Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga labeled the allegations as “egregious lies” intended to incite public fear and create political instability. The government insists there are no such provisions in the current or proposed tax laws.
The controversy erupted after a viral video showed the former minister warning citizens that an APC victory would lead to a significant tax burden on business transactions and rent. Amaechi had suggested that the government was delaying the implementation of these taxes to avoid voter backlash, urging the public to verify the “new tax law” with legal experts.
In its rebuttal, the Presidency clarified that the ongoing tax reforms are focused on simplification and efficiency rather than arbitrary increases. The administration reiterated its commitment to creating a business-friendly environment and cautioned political actors against spreading misinformation that could disrupt the economy.
The Nation corroborated the Presidency’s stance, noting that the Federal Ministry of Finance has no such 25% levy in its 2026 projections. A legal expert quoted in ThisDay stated, “There is no legislative record of a post-dated tax law of this magnitude; such claims appear to be purely speculative.” Additionally, Channels TV reported that the viral video has sparked intense debate on social media, with one analyst noting, “Political rhetoric regarding taxation must be grounded in documented policy to avoid unnecessary market panic.”
Echotitbits take: This exchange highlights the heightening political tension as the 2027 election cycle begins to loom. Expect taxation to remain a central, albeit contentious, campaign issue as both sides scramble to define the economic narrative.
Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/01/presidency-rebuts-kpmgs-claims-on-new-tax-laws-defends-reform-choices-2/, and February 15, 2026
Photo credit: Vanguard
Tag: APC
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Presidency Rebuts Allegations of Looming 25% Post-Election Tax Hike
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Wike Asserts Authority in Rivers State Amid Lingering Political Crisis
In an update published by The Punch on February 1st, 2026, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has declared that he remains the dominant political force in Rivers State. Speaking at a civic reception in his honor, Wike assured his supporters that they could “sleep with both eyes closed” because his camp remains firmly in control of the state’s political structure despite his role in Abuja.
According to Vanguard News, Wike’s comments have reignited the cold war between his loyalists and the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The report highlights that Wike used the event to showcase his influence, including his role in recommending top officials for federal appointments. “I have always said that appreciation is the currency of loyalty, and we will continue to reward those who stand with us,” Wike reportedly told the crowd.
Reporting by Daily Post indicates that the political atmosphere in Port Harcourt remains tense following the Minister’s pronouncements. The outlet quoted a local activist who warned: “The continued power struggle between the FCT Minister and the Governor is distracting from governance and could lead to further instability in the Niger Delta region.”
Echotitbits take: The Rivers crisis is no longer just a state matter; it is a significant government policy and security headache for the presidency. Wike’s “I am in charge” stance suggests that no reconciliation is in sight, which could impact the 2027 presidential calculations for the South-South region.
Source: The Punch — https://punchng.com/rivers-crisis-were-in-charge-says-wike/, February 1, 2026
Photo credit: The Punch
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NNPP Dismisses Rumors of Kwankwaso’s Defection to Ruling Party
According to Daily Post reporting on February 1st, 2026, the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) has officially debunked viral reports claiming that its national leader, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, is in talks to join the All Progressives Congress (APC). The party described the rumors as “mischievous fabrications” intended to create disharmony among opposition forces ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.
Reporting by Leadership News confirms that the NNPP leadership held an emergency meeting in Abuja to address the speculation. The party’s spokesperson clarified that Kwankwaso has not met with President Tinubu for political negotiations since 2024. “Our leader remains committed to the NNPP’s ideology and is focused on building a formidable alternative for Nigerians,” the spokesperson said in a direct quote.
In an update published by The Nation, it was suggested that the rumors were fueled by recent defections of other high-profile opposition members to the APC. However, the paper quoted an NNPP chieftain who insisted: “Kwankwaso is a man of principle; he will not be intimidated or lured into a party that he has consistently criticized for its economic policies.”
Echotitbits take: This denial is a classic move in the Nigerian political “chess game.” While the NNPP is currently holding its ground, the ongoing realignment of governors—including the rumored exit of Abba Yusuf—suggests that Kwankwaso may soon find himself politically isolated if he doesn’t secure a new alliance.
Source: The Punch — https://punchng.com/kwankwaso-never-discussed-defection-with-apc-nnpp/, February 1, 2026
Photo credit: The Punch
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Senator Ndume Criticizes President Tinubu’s Inner Circle over “Lagos Elitism”
In an update published by Daily Post, Senator Ali Ndume (Borno South) criticized President Bola Tinubu’s advisory circle, alleging it is disconnected from everyday realities. Speaking on Arise Television, Ndume said the President is surrounded by people who “only know Ikoyi and Victoria Island” and frequently travel abroad, while grassroots political voices are sidelined.
He argued that Tinubu’s Lagos-era political strength was built on loyalists who have now been replaced by a newer technocratic clique—fueling internal party debate over influence and coalition management ahead of 2027. The Presidency has not issued a formal response.
The Punch quoted Ndume’s complaint that some advisers “don’t know politics” and are often abroad, while The Nation framed the comments as reflecting unease within sections of the APC hierarchy.
Echotitbits take: Ndume is functioning as a warning signal inside the APC. If the “Lagos-centric” perception hardens, the presidency may need visible rebalancing moves—appointments, engagement, and policy concessions—to keep Northern support consolidated for 2027.
Source: Facebook — https://web.facebook.com/100064638796212/posts/senator-ali-ndume-apcborno-south-has-again-criticised-president-bola-ahmed-tinub/1262561532575128/?_rdc=1&_rdr# 2026-01-29
Photo Credit: Facebook
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Vice President Shettima Declares Peace as Precondition for Nigeria’s Greatness
According to the Nigerian Observer, Vice President Kashim Shettima said Nigeria can become one of the world’s leading nations if citizens embrace tolerance and peaceful coexistence. Speaking during a state visit where he formally received Governor Caleb Mutfwang into the APC, Shettima argued that Nigerians share more in common than what divides them.
He urged traditional rulers and community leaders to help sustain stability, describing them as a moral anchor for society. The moment also carried political significance, signaling continued consolidation of ruling-party influence across different zones.
Leadership reported Shettima’s emphasis that development is impossible without peace, while The Nation highlighted his call for national reconciliation as part of the economic agenda.
Echotitbits take: It’s familiar unity rhetoric, but timely amid rising ethnic and religious friction. The real test is whether this messaging is followed by concrete policy adjustments—especially around conflict resolution, justice delivery, and how regional grievances are addressed.
Source : State House — https://statehouse.gov.ng/vp-shettima-visits-gbong-gwom-jos-preaches-tolerance-peaceful-coexistence/ 2026-01-29
Photo Credit: State House
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Amosun Rallies Mammoth Crowd in Abeokuta, Endorses Tinubu for 2027
Former Ogun State Governor and Senator Ibikunle Amosun turned his 68th birthday celebration into a large-scale political rally at the Ake Palace Pavilion in Abeokuta on January 25, 2026. Addressing supporters, Amosun publicly endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second-term bid ahead of 2027, arguing that the South should complete an eight-year tenure for stability and equity.
Amosun described rotational presidency as a practical framework for national cohesion. He maintained that after eight years of Northern leadership, fairness requires that the presidency remain in the South until 2031, positioning Tinubu as the region’s consensus candidate. Despite reports of internal party friction and alleged boycott directives, the rally drew prominent APC figures and filled the pavilion to capacity.
Beyond politics, the event reportedly included a humanitarian visit to the Ibara Correctional Centre, where Amosun’s team donated relief items. Additional reporting characterized the rally as a demonstration of enduring political influence, with Amosun urging Nigerians to exercise patience with ongoing reforms and to respect zoning in the interest of national stability.
Echotitbits take: Amosun is effectively reminding everyone that he remains the “issue” in Ogun politics. By backing Tinubu so early and so publicly, he is carving out a strategic position for himself in the 2027 power map, likely to the chagrin of the current state administration.
Source: Vanguard – https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/01/2027-presidency-respect-rotational-agreement-amosun-tells-north/ 2026-01-26Photo Credit: Vanguard
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APC Strengthens Northern Grip as Kano Governor Formally Joins Ruling Party
Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has finalized his political transition from the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). He is scheduled to officially register at his Gwale ward on January 26, 2026, a move that signals a major realignment in Nigeria’s most populous northern state.
State officials have described the move as a “homecoming.” The governor’s camp says the shift will improve coordination between Kano’s government and the federal administration in Abuja. The transition reportedly includes the defection of 22 state lawmakers and 44 local government chairmen, potentially reshaping legislative and administrative alignments across the state.
While supporters frame the decision as a pathway to accelerated development, critics argue it may narrow political diversity in Kano. Separate reporting has described the defection as further consolidating the APC’s position nationally, with Kano officials also pushing back against narratives that the state’s political future should revolve around any single individual.
Echotitbits take: This defection effectively collapses the NNPP’s strongest base. Watch for how the Kwankwasiyya movement reacts—this could either lead to a total APC hegemony in Kano or trigger a new, aggressive opposition coalition.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/kano-gov-to-formally-rejoin-apc-monday/ 2026-01-26Photo Credit: The Punch
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South-East APC leaders signal early backing for Tinubu’s second-term bid
According to The Nation, South-East leaders within the APC have publicly endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term, framing it as a political strategy to consolidate the party’s position ahead of 2027.
The report says the endorsement is tied to promises of mobilisation and vote delivery, signalling early alliance-building and intra-party positioning.
Political analysts note endorsements this early can be as much about negotiating access and policy priorities as about the final electoral map, which will depend on security, economy and coalition dynamics.
The development also raises questions about regional bargaining: representation in appointments, infrastructure commitments and inclusion in national decision-making.
Echotitbits take: Early endorsements are leverage plays. Watch what specific policy asks follow—projects, appointments, or legislative priorities—and whether other blocs counter with alternative coalitions.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/uzodimma-others-back-tinubus-re-election/ 11 January 2026
The Punch 2026-01-11
Photo Credit: The Punch
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APC in Lagos Backs Tax Reforms, Says Low-Income Earners Will Be Shielded
In an update published by The Nation, the Lagos chapter of the APC defended the Federal Government’s tax reform agenda, arguing that the framework is intended to protect vulnerable citizens while improving compliance and collection.
Party officials said the reforms aim to streamline Nigeria’s tax architecture, reduce duplication, and expand the tax base through technology rather than imposing heavier burdens on struggling households.
The debate has drawn reactions from labour and other stakeholders amid cost-of-living concerns and broader fiscal pressures.
**Echotitbits take:** The policy battle will be won or lost on trust and implementation. Nigerians will watch for real relief—especially any clearly defined exemptions for low-income earners and visible service improvements tied to the extra revenue.
Source: Independent — https://independent.ng/new-tax-reform-not-weapon-against-the-poor-apc-clarifies/ 2026-01-08Photo Credit: Independent
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Kano Politics on Edge as Gov. Yusuf Hints at Possible APC Switch
Per the coverage by Daily Post, Kano State’s political temperature rose after Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf addressed rumours of a possible move to the APC, telling supporters he prefers action over talk.
Yusuf currently governs under the NNPP, and speculation around a defection has triggered reactions among party stakeholders and allies, including those aligned with Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso.
Analysts say any cross-carpeting in Kano could reshape regional alliances ahead of the next election cycle.
**Echotitbits take:** Kano remains pivotal to northern politics, so any defection would have outsized ripple effects. Watch for signals from the Kano assembly and the Kwankwasiyya base, and whether federal-level political bargaining accelerates.
Source: Daily Post — https://dailypost.ng/2026/01/06/apc-move-gov-yusuf-secures-backing-of-kano-lawmakers-other-stakeholders/ 2026-01-08Photo Credit: Daily Post